More Money, More Problems: PA Broadband Authority Outlines Challenges

Pennsylvania is poised to receive over $1 billion in federal broadband funding over the next five years. Spotlight PA reported that the Broadband Development Authority outlined a plan that addresses both the “historic opportunity” and “serious challenges” of expanding coverage across the commonwealth.

The Authority’s plan outlines five significant challenges, including:

1. Workforce shortages: The state requires an estimated 117,000 workers are needed to build new broadband networks. Pennsylvania needs “rapid support” from training programs, the plan says.  
2. Supply chain problems: Difficulty obtaining electrical components and high-tech chips could delay projects and drive up costs. Since all 50 states will be embarking on building out infrastructure around the same time, this factor could also lead to issues. Federal law also requires all construction materials to be produced in the U.S.  
3. Permits: These official documents will be required for the state’s more than 2,600 municipalities, which all process permits differently. The Authority suggests adding temporary staff to help local governments administer permits and also recommends implementing a statewide permitting standard.  
4. The cost of an internet subscription: According to a survey by the Authority, 56 percent of respondents (PA residents) said broadband subscription costs were challenging. Just over half said paying their monthly internet bill was either “somewhat” or “very” difficult. A solution still needs to be outlined, but the state could require companies receiving grant funds to provide discounts to low-income residents. 
5. Limited competition among providers: Over half of the responses to the state survey said residents lacked a choice regarding internet service providers. Pennsylvania “may prioritize” companies that “bring competition into the market statewide” by offering a chance for small local companies to grow.

Spotlight PA reported that the Authority still has an assignment when it comes to how it will evaluate grant proposals and disseminate funding. That plan will be laid out in another document, which must be submitted to the federal government by late December.